Car Repair Services

Diagnostics: 

We use SNAPON Diagnostic Computer system, a specialized tool and software, to assess the health of your vehicle's systems, primarily through the car's on-board computer. It helps our mechanics identify potential problems, both current and future, by retrieving error codes and analysing data from various sensors. 

We then verify component failure to make sure the computer is not simply confused. After determining the cause of your problem, we will recommend the necessary repairs. This allows for targeted repairs and preventative maintenance, potentially saving time and money in the long run.

Battery & Alternator: 

A car battery is a rechargeable battery that provides the electrical power to start a vehicle's engine and operate its various electrical systems. It's a crucial component, acting as the car's power source for starting the engine and supporting accessories like lights, radio, and more.

Start-stop batteries are designed for vehicles with automatic start-stop systems, which frequently turn the engine
on and off to save fuel. These batteries are built to handle the increased demands of frequent engine restarts and continuous power supply to vehicle systems, even when the engine is off. Regular car batteries are not designed for this level of cycling and can fail prematurely in a start-stop vehicle.

Car batteries typically last around 3-5 years, but their lifespan can be affected by usage and environmental conditions. 

An alternator is an electrical generator in a vehicle that converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical
energy. This electrical energy is used to charge the car's battery and power the vehicle's electrical systems, like lights, radio, and air conditioning, while the engine is running. Essentially, it keeps the battery charged and the car's electrical components functioning. 

Head Gaskets: 

The head gasket seals the engine block and cylinder head, preventing leaks of coolant and oil into the combustion chamber. It also ensures that combustion gases remain contained within the cylinders, maintaining proper compression for engine power. A properly functioning head gasket is essential for maintaining engine performance and preventing overheating. Leaks can lead to serious engine damage and costly repairs. A blown or leaking head gasket can result in white smoke from the exhaust (due to coolant burning), oil contamination (milky oil), overheating, and loss of engine power.

Timing Belt / Chain & Water Pump: 

A timing belt or timing chain synchronizes the firing order of your engine The water pump is a crucial component of the engine's cooling system, circulating coolant to prevent overheating. In many vehicles, the water pump is driven by the timing belt / chain. 

Timing Belt: A toothed rubber belt with reinforcing fibers, connecting the crankshaft and camshaft.

Timing Chain: A metal chain, similar to a bicycle chain that performs the same function as the timing belt.  If the timing is off, it can lead to valve and piston damage, potentially causing severe engine problems. 

It is recommended that a timing belt /chain and water pump be changed every 120 000km or 5 years whichever comes first.

Clutches: 

A car clutch is a mechanical device that connects and disconnects the engine's power to the transmission, allowing the driver to change gears smoothly and control the vehicle's speed. Where and HOW you drive will have a huge impact on how long this part will last. On some vehicles, additional parts may be required to be replaced or recommended at the time of clutch replacement.

Gearbox: 

The gearbox in a car works by transferring power from the engine to drive the wheels by employing a set of gears that can be shifted to change the speed and torque.

Several signs can indicate a problem with your MANUAL gearbox. These include unusual noises like grinding or whining, difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, and the presence of a burning smell, especially if accompanied by fluid leaks.
Signs that can indicate a problem with your AUTOMATIC gearbox, include delayed or harsh gear changes, unusual noises like whining or clunking, slipping gears, a burning smell, and transmission fluid leaks. A check engine light on the dashboard can also signal a gearbox issue. 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's best to have your car inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

Exhaust: 

Your car’s exhaust primary function is to safely and efficiently remove harmful gases, like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides, from the engine. In your car’s exhaust systems there are mufflers or silencers to dampen the loud noise produced by the engine's combustion process. The design of the exhaust system can influence engine performance by managing backpressure and optimizing gas flow. The exhaust system is also one of the first engine parts to need repairs or replacement due to the extreme temperatures and proximity to road grime and water puddles.

At Automania we pride ourselves in our Custom Exhaust fabrication. Only the BEST T304 stainless steel pipe is used accompanied with stainless steel welding wire. We use our own pipe bender which saves on waiting time for pipes to be ordered and delivered.

Brakes: 

The brake system relies on several key components, namely brake pads, brake discs, drums and shoes, brake callipers, brake pipes, brake wear sensors, and a functioning hydraulic system. In order to generate the necessary friction required for your car to brake effectively, it needs to be maintained. Do not take shortcuts when repairing or servicing your brakes.

Steering & Suspension: 

When your steering becomes difficult, especially when driving at low speeds, it means that there might be a problem with your suspension or steering system. The steering and suspension system have the important job of controlling where your car goes and how it drives. The steering and suspension system of a car are not only important for safety reasons, but also enhance the comfort level of the vehicle. The two systems are directly related to each other, which is why they are always referred to together.

CV Joints: 

A CV joint (constant velocity joint) connects a car's driveshaft to the wheels, allowing for power transfer and accommodating suspension movement. It ensures the wheels rotate at a constant speed, even when the suspension moves up and down or when the wheels are turned. These joints are crucial for front-wheel drive vehicles, but are also found in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive cars. 

There are a few signs to look out for that indicate you may need to replace your joints:

• Clunking noise when you change gear.
• Clicking or knocking noises when you turn on full lock.
• Vibration during acceleration.
• Lubricant leaking from the joint boot.

Wheel Bearings: 

Wheel bearings facilitate the rotation of the wheel hub, which is connected to the wheel via the vehicle's axle. The primary role of a wheel bearing is to minimize friction between the rotating wheel and the stationary parts of the vehicle, allowing the wheel to spin freely. Proper functioning wheel bearings are essential for smooth driving, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle performance. Like any mechanical part, wheel bearings wear out over time due to constant use, requiring eventual replacement. 

A grinding or humming noise while driving, especially when turning, is a strong indicator of bad wheel bearings. Other signs include vibrations in the steering wheel, loose or wandering steering, and uneven tire wear. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's best to have your wheel bearings inspected by a mechanic, as driving with bad bearings can cause further damage and safety issues.

Bulbs & Lighting: 

Proper lighting is important for good visibility on the road, and for your safety. It is also required by the law. Car lighting systems include headlights, taillights, brake lights, indicators, and interior lights, each with specific functions for visibility and safety.

We supply and fit a wide variety of bulbs for each part of your car, provided there is no limitations to accessibility. Polishing and Focusing of headlights is also a service we are happy to offer.